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AUSTIN, TX – Texas reached a somber milestone in December as it marked 25 years since the last day no one died in a traffic crash on the state’s roads. Since November 7, 2000, more than 91,000 people have lost their lives in accidents across Texas.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), an average of 11 people were killed in vehicle crashes each day last year alone. The statistics paint a grim picture of a preventable crisis that has touched virtually every Texas community.
“These aren’t just numbers. Each one represents a real person and a family dealing with loss,” said Austin personal injury attorney Brooks Schuelke of Schuelke Law.
“As someone who works with crash victims and their loved ones every day, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating ripple effects these tragedies create for years to come.”
The causes behind the Texas traffic fatality crisis are well-documented. In 2024, more than 1,400 people were killed in speed-related collisions, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). One in four traffic deaths resulted from impaired driving, and more than 1,000 fatalities occurred in collisions where vehicle occupants were not wearing seatbelts. Distracted driving and phone use continue to be major contributing factors to accidents statewide.
TxDOT and the DPS held a candlelight vigil on November 7 to mark the tragic anniversary and raise awareness about preventable crashes. The agencies announced a joint campaign to impart messages about safe driving habits to motorists.
“These crashes aren’t inevitable accidents; they’re the result of choices,” Attorney Schuelke explained. “Distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving and not buckling up are all decisions that can be changed. Every time we get behind the wheel, we have the power to protect ourselves and others. These crashes may be common, but that doesn’t make them any less serious or the injuries any less devastating.”
TxDOT is working to improve road safety through $60 billion worth of active highway and construction projects statewide. The agency is also implementing innovative intersections, using new design strategies and harnessing AI to prevent crashes.
Schuelke Law offers free consultations for those who have been injured in vehicle crashes. The firm handles cases involving distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and other forms of negligence that contribute to the ongoing traffic safety crisis in Texas.
For 20 years, the personal injury attorneys at Schuelke Law have been helping accident victims and their families recover damages and get their lives back. Get the benefits you deserve. Get the respect you deserve.
Schuelke Law
1100 B Guadalupe St
Austin, TX 78701
MEDIA CONTACT
Brooks Schuelke
(512) 337-3081
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